Divorce can be exhausting, relieving, heartbreaking, and liberating all at once. It’s an emotional rollercoaster that shakes up your lifestyle, routines, and habits. When the dust finally settles, you’ll realise that it’s also an opportunity. Now, you get to choose how you approach your next chapter, and what better place to get stuck in than Austin? Whether you’re easing back into solo dining, planning a post-split celebration with friends, or looking to make new connections, this city always has the perfect table waiting for you.
Best Restaurant for a Solo Meal – Nixta Taqueria
The counter-service setup at Nixta Taqueria means you can show up alone without it feeling weird, but that’s not the main reason to come here. The flavors cooked up by owners Sara and Edgar are out of this world, and it hasn’t gone unnoticed. This humble taqueria has been awarded the prestigious Michelin Bib Gourmand status. Grab a seat on the patio, order a cold michelada, and tuck in to tasty bites like juicy tacos and heirloom tomato tlayuda.
Best Place for a First Date – The Little Darlin
If you’re ready to jump back into the dating game, The Little Darlin’ in South Austin is a fun place to start. The atmosphere is casual, and there’s a decent menu with surprisingly creative and diverse dishes. Plus, the garden is gorgeous in the warmer months. It’s the kind of place you can relax into conversation over a spontaneous lunch. As day turns to evening there’s often live music to amp up the vibe.
Best for Indulgence – Odd Duck
Sometimes, a breakup calls for more than tubs of ice cream on the couch. It’s time to take yourself out, and if you’re feeling fancy, there’s no better place than Odd Duck. This upscale restaurant is a full-on sensory experience and a celebration of taste. Head straight for the chef’s counter or the bar where you’ll get a front-row view on the open kitchen. The staff are known to be excellent company, and you won’t feel at all out of place by dining without guests.
It’s a treat-yourself meal, and worth every cent. After all, ending a marriage takes strength, and it’s a chance for empowerment and growth. This sentiment is echoed by professionals in both the psychological and legal fields, including Meghan Freed, Super Lawyer and relationship thought leader, whose expertise has been featured everywhere from Harper’s Bazaar to Newsweek. Self-care is a critical part of divorce, and nourishing your body is one way to achieve that.
Best for Meeting New People – The Peacock
Hotel bars in general are great if you’re newly single and looking to mix with a slightly more sophisticated clientele than the 20-somethings on Sixth Street. If you ask locals, they’ll probably tell you The Peacock is the best of the bunch. This Mediterranean grill is located inside the Proper Hotel and offers flavor-packed dishes like Moroccan Curry Tajine and Toasted Almond Muhammara until as late as 10:30 pm. The bar stays open until late, and the staff are friendly without being overbearing. You won’t feel out of place as a solo diner, either. This place is classy, vibrant, and full of interesting people who know how to hold a conversation.
Divorce is scary, but it’s also a fresh start. Fortunately, Austin’s food and nightlife scene is here to help you find your groove. Whether you’re looking for a new fling, or to simply enjoy your own company over a delicious meal, Austin has plenty to offer, so go out, order at will, and savor your new beginning.